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Tuesday, January 2, 2018

Nothing Stays the Same ~

With each New Year comes change...

Over the course of four years our family has experienced a number of changes that have taken place.From my own health issues leaving me with a balance disorder, to the estate sale and selling of my parents home, to the loss of my precious dad and now with the health issuesmy dear mom has been going through and will continue to live with.Mom's life has changed drastically leaving my sisters and me with the taskof looking after her many needs, as well as trying to help herin making the right decisions that will best suit herwith a lifestyle and living arrangements that she can accept.It's not an easy task and it certainly wears on our own life and health. Today marks 6 months since mom's heart attack.She has been through so much including the brain surgery which has placed her in a rehab facility keeping her longer than we had expected.Mom has been a real trooper through it alland I commend her for striving and believing she will one day live alone again.God knows, and I have patiently learned how to wait upon Him and allow Himto direct us and carry us over each and every little bridgethat we must cross.♡"Nothing stays the same"That became my motto in life four years ago.

As I am getting older the effects of change have hit harder and deeper

than those changes made when I was much younger.Life is such a carefree place when we are younger, isn't it?Its all good when we belong to Christ and I am reminded on a daily basis thatthere is nothing that comes as a surprise to Him. To God be the glory for great things He has done!I will give praise to his Holy name, for His love abounds and abounds.I couldn't imagine going through the struggles of life without Jesus Christ, as my Lord and Savior.

With much thought and prayer, I have come to a decision of closing this chapter of my life with my Blog. I desire to be found faithful as I follow after God, accomplishing all that he has for me, bringing glory to his Name.It seems like the hours in my day come and go so very quickly,leaving me with little time to pour my heart into my blog or even having the time to visit those of you, whom I've come to love,respect, appreciate and enjoy so very much. In order to have a friend, you must show yourself to be friendly. Sigh... I just haven't the time right now to give towards visiting,though I long to be more active, it just isn't happening.Thank you for your faithfulness with your visits and for your amazing, beautiful friendship. I shall hold each and every one of you close and dear to my heart, forever.

There are many things calling me right now and paths I believe God is directing me to venture out on. I know that by God's grace and his strength I will be able to do all that He so desires for me to accomplish. As I grow closer in my relationship with the Lord,I know that I can trust Him wherever He may lead. Right now, mom has many needs that must be met and cared for and I want to be available to do all that God would have me to do. I have some of my own health issues that I need to take the time for,as well as some personal endeavors I hope to accomplish.

God has used this blog and our wonderful blogging community to enrich my life in ways I would have never thought possible. I have gleaned such beauty from your many posts, dear friends,not to mention the outpouring of love and grace that each one of you have showered me with over these past years.It has been above and beyond BEAUTIFUL!Thank you for welcoming me so graciously into your community and befriending me with an unforgettable loving and caring friendship.My blog will remain live but I will not be posting.I have made many, many dear friends that I hope to remain in contact with through e mail, so please send a note when you have extra time on your handsand I will happily respond back as time allows. pinklace555@gmail.com Much Love to you!♡"Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love. "1 Corinthians 16:13&14Joy!~ Debbie ~

Dear Debbie, Thank you for your transparency here and your obedience in following the Lord's directives. It is a stretching season for you to be sure and following His lead is the very best you can do. That being said, it will be sad for those of us who have cherished your friendship and blog. I pray your New Year will bring blessings beyond anything you could imagine. Sending lots of love and prayers your way.Noreen

HI DEBBIE, THANK YOU FOR SUCH A BEAUTIFUL AND HEARTFELT POST! I WILL CONTINUE MY PRAYERS FOR YOU AND YOUR MOM AND YOUR PHAMILY. I LOVE HOW YOU LOVE THE LORD AND TRUST HIM. I AGREE, I COULD NEVER HAVE GONE THROUGH ALL THE VARIOUS TRIALS IN MY LIFE WITHOUT HIM CLOSE BY MY SIDE. I WILL MISS YOU, THERE ARE PEOPLE WHO YOU KNOW ARE ALWAYS THERE WITH JUST THE RIGHT THING TO SAY WHEN YOUR DAYS AREB'T GREAT. BUT I DO UNDERSTAND.WATCHING MY SWEET GREAT GRANDBOY SLEEP ON THE FLOOR IN MY LIVING ROOM, WE PLAYED FOR TWO SOLID HOURS WITH HIS NEW FARM. HIS PAPA IN NEBRASKA HAS A FARM AND HE LOVES ALL GOD'S CREATURES THERE. SO WE PLAY HERE AND HE IS SUCH A JOY, I HATE TO THINK OF THE DAYS WHEN HE IS NOT WITH ME. I KNOW HE ISN'T LEARNING ABOUT JESUS AT SCHOOL, SO I TELL HIM. MY FRIEND MAUREEN ALWAYS SAYS, WE MUST NEVER FAIL THESE LITTLE ONES. THEY NEED TO KNOW JESUS.I AM SORRY I LOCKED THE CAPS SO I HOPE YOU WILL KNOW I AM NOT BEING RUDE. IT HAS BEEN A BUSY DAY ALREADY.PLEASE CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR MY PHAMILY, OUR OLDEST SON AND HIS WIFE WAITING ON A NEW BABY, A BOY, BRODY EDWARD IN MARCH 2018. BUT BRITTANY HAS HAD SOME HEALTH ISSUES SO I KEEP TRUSTING GOD.I WILL KEEP UP WITH YOU TOO. I PRAY FOR YOUR MOM AND KNOW HOW DIFFICULT LFE CA BE AS WE ALL AGE.TAKE CARE AND KNOW YOU WILL BE MISSED HERE BUT FOREVER IN MY HEART.HUGS AND BLESSINGS ANNE

I have had many changes in my life since my hubby died 5 yrs ago. Last year brought serious issues and to deal with surgery and muscle loss and heart attack and regaining strength to walk. Now I am doing much better, still working on muscle rebuild, but thank the Lord for being there for me through everything. God bless you all!

It is with a sad heart that I read this blog. You have always been such an inspiration to me, but I totally understand the reason for your need to rest from posting. You and your daughter go overboard to be so gracious and it has been a blessing. You have made the right choice - to obey the Lord's leading. He never leads us in the wrong direction. Your family is so important. God bless you richly for being so humble and honest as you have blogged and give you strength for your new path. Thanks for having been here for us. Many hugs.

Oddly enough, it was through my blog that I was given so many friendships that helped get me through the years after my mom's death, and my dad's dementia and eventual death. But now I too am feeling the blog is not so important to me, and I'd like to do more away from the computer. I haven't been able to shut the blog down completely though. Having said this, I understand how you must feel about the time on the computer as well. Blogging IS very time consuming, and that is the drawback, isn't it. I enjoy the writing, but when I think of visiting everyone who visited me, it becomes a daunting task. Thank you for your friendship over the years Debbie. You've been a great help to me, although you may never know how much. I do hope things with your mom are less taxing on you and your family, and that you are able to take care of yourself as well. I know firsthand how caring for ageing parents takes a toll on your own well being, and you cannot ignore yourself. Hugs to you and best wishes on your new direction, and may God be with you throughout.Wendy xox

Oh Debbie, I kind of saw this coming and totally understand that you need follow the prompting of the Holy Spirit as He leads you. You will be missed dearly in Blogland and thank you for all of your kind and caring words. There have been so many times when I wish you had been close enough to just go visit and talk over a cup of coffee or tea...you have brought so much beauty to our blog sisters and I for one will miss your beautiful posts. God bless you in this new year and whatever it holds for you and your dear family. Sending much love & prayers to you, my dear friend. ♥♥♥

Aw, dear Debbie. I shall miss your gracious and loving words on your blog posts but I totally understand. Over the past few years I have walked along much of the same path as you are now doing. Though of course our walks are individual to us but I understand where you are coming from. I lost my dear mom part way through 2017 and I disappeared from my blog for about 7 months too. At the time I didn't know whether I was disappearing from blogland for a temporary time or for good.

I pray that in 2018, God will give you strength to deal with your mom's continuing needs and to help you with your own health. Even if you are no longer posting we will at least continue to be blessed by what you have already posted. God bless you dear blogging friend. Hugs and prayers ♥♥♥

You are a good daughter, Debbie. I get it that your time isn't as abundant now that your mother needs your help. God be with you as you serve and God bless you as you deal with your health issues, too.

Dear Debbie, I totally understand how you feel. Our loved ones and our own health come first...and we know how it feels to feel stretched between too many "needs" and have-to's. We each have to determine where to draw the line. You will be missed here, and perhaps you may find that you want to drop a line now and then as the Lord leads...but without the pressure to keep up with everyone. We will continue to pray for you and your mom and family as you sort out all these issues. Take care of yourself and draw close to Jesus through it all. He will carry you through.

Dear, precious friend! I will never cease praising God for you, for allowing our paths to cross, for sending you into my life when He knew I needed you most, for the blessing it is to me every time I see an email or a blog post from you, for the generous and beyond kind things you have done for my family and me, and for the true joy it is to know you and have your presence in my life. You are one of the sweetest, most giving, dear ladies I have ever "met". Somehow, I get the feeling that God will allow us to meet in person one day, but if He chooses not to do that, I know in my heart that one day we will meet together, at Jesus' feet, and we will worship Him together. What a day of rejoicing that will be! The kindness you have shown to me, time after time, will NEVER be forgotten by my family or by me...you are a living, breathing, shining example of what it means to love like Jesus loves. You are one of the most giving people I know, and I am so blessed to call you my friend. It is heartbreaking to me to know that there will be no more precious blog posts from you. I just feel so sad inside knowing this, but this blog is not our only connection. We are connected in spirit...from the heart, and we will continue our precious friendship outside the blogging atmosphere. Your presence here has added SO much...love, joy, hope, encouragement, comfort, and grace. Your name is permanently written on the pages of my prayer list book, and I pray for your regularly. You can count on me continuing to do that for as long as I live, and I do trust your dear, precious mother continues to improve and that God will grant her the desires of her heart to live independently again. I know how hard this path is for you and your sister, and I do trust God to give you the daily strength, courage, and wisdom such a season of life demands from you. Sending big hugs to you today and much love and many prayers. I will miss you terribly here...your labors here on this blog have not been in vain. They have accomplished what God wanted them to accomplish, and now, as you step forward into another type of ministry, He will be with you every step of the way. I love and appreciate you dearly, sweet friend.

I so understand your need in listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit, dearest Debbie. There is much to be done for your Mom, and many needs to be met. We will always be friends, and I'm so very thankful that I was able to meet you and Stephanie in person! You have taught me and inspired me so much with your wisdom. My own dear little mother fell in her kitchen, and broke her right shoulder. I am flying to Ohio on Friday to help with her care. It's so sad to see parents go through so much, isn't it? God bless you, Debbie, as you continue to follow God's special callings to you. I love you, sweet friend!

Awe Debbie, wish I could give you a big hug! What a dear you are and what a wonderful privilege it has been for me to get to know you through our blogs. I so understand your decision and will be praying for you as you deal with all the issues life has dealt you at this time. May the Lord continue to give you strength and comfort for the task at hand and you will be missed terribly. Much love to you!

Oh Debbie, this is a bittersweet post to read. I am so grateful that you are obeying the Lord and following His calling on your life. It is difficult sometimes to close doors in order to open other ones. In this case, caring for your mom, taking care of your own health, and all the other things going on in your life certainly take precedence. Blogging does take time away from "real life." But I will miss, and so many will miss, your encouraging words and wise counsel, and how you lovingly direct us to follow our Lord.You can be sure I will keep in contact with you through email! The Lord bless you and keep you. Know that you are loved by many.Love, Deborah

God bless you Debbie in all that the Lord leads you to do. It has been a pleasure interacting with you. I have had to shut down my email due to hacking, but when I open up a new one I will come over to yours to say 'hello'. Here is a little song of prayer that I wrote many years ago, they may be your words to the Lord at this time too.

Wherever You lead me I will follow Youthrough hail wind and fire Lord - I will worship Youfor what should I fear Lord in a foreign landif You are there with me holding my handWherever I am Lord I will worship Youwhenever I can Lord I will speak of Youto every nation, kindred and tongueI'll tell of salvation through God's Holy One

May God bless your mum with all that is good, for all is possible with Him. Amen

Debbie I certainly understand and commend you for being faithful to the tasks God has called you to at this time but I SURELY will miss your blog :( I'm hoping that we will still be able to keep in touch via email and I would treasure any updates and/or prayer requests that you would feel you want to share. You have been such a faithful daughter to your mom -- I know it has been hard and will continue to challenge you all but you are such an example to those of us who also have aging parents with many needs. You have my email -- please feel free to vent, cry, share, laugh or whatever may be on your 'plate' and know I will gladly do what I can to encourage you! Blessings to you my friend.

You will always have a blog friend in me and I will continue to think of you and your beautiful posts. I so understand all the reasons for leaving your blog, but having it stay live is a great thing. Through searches, others will be able to click and read your many inspiring posts on the Lord and how we need Him in our lives. Your encouraging words will live on! I will miss you but hold you in my heart <3 xoxo

Awww, Happy New Year! Sad to see you go. I know all about not having the time to blog. It takes me forever to make my rounds, and I JUST NOW did my Christmas post. I guess that's just life. I hope you have a great 2018 and maybe we'll see you around. :)

Dear Debbie, I appreciate your being so transparent. I totally get it too my friend. Wishing you a brand new year filled with God's goodness Debbie. Praying for you and your sisters as you care so lovingly for your mama. One thing is certain....No matter what, He will never leave us nor forsake us. For now, this is the journey that God would have you take. And even through the pain there is joy Debbie. Through the battle there is victory. Through the darkness at times there is always light. You are precious and I am praying for you all. Hugs and blessings, Cindy

Dear Debbie, it’s so true that life brings changes at every turn and you’re doing what you need for your mother and your health with the Lords help and direction. Giving your attention to what’s important is always the right thing. My prayers will be with you and your sisters as you care for your mother. Your friendship over the years has been a blessing and that certainly doesn’t end here. We will keep in touch and I pray you and yours find comfort and joy in 2018. God Bless you and give your courage and strength. Much Love, Celestina Marie

Debbie, even though I haven't been around too much lately, I will miss your blog. I do understand though as you have to do what is laid on your heart. Blogging does take time something I've been struggling with. I want to post something but find my days just fly by. I've decided to keep blogging and just post when I feel I have time and something to share.

This has been such a difficult year for you dear friend, with all the health issues with your Mom, but I can assure you that each post you shared was enjoyed so very much. I am glad you are keeping your blog "live" so that should things change down the road, you can resume blogging again. Sometimes it is good to just let things lie for a while. You certainly have your hands full with taking care of your mother, along with your own health struggles. I just want you to know that your precious joy-filled words are such a blessing to my soul, even if you just have time for a short post, you really do share the love of Christ in all you do. You will certainly be in my prayers dear friend, what a tremendous blessing you have been in my life! Do lets keep in touch via email/cards and I will be praying for all these situations for you! Hugs to you today dear friend :)

Hello dear Debbie~I always enjoy stopping in your beautiful and encouraging blog!Yes, as time marches on it is always changing things.Extreme difficulties can 'challenge' our faith, but I alwaysremember a quote from "Streams In The Desert" that reminds me- - we grow, under the load. . . You are wise to 'know when to stop', and though I will miss your beautiful posts, I genuinely understand.I hope we can keep in touch dear sister in the Lord <3Hugs, love and prayers,Karen O

My heart is saddened to learn that you are closing the blog for now, but, my dear friend, I do truly understand. As much as blogging is a part of us, there does come a time in each of our lives when we have things happen that God uses to gently draw us away from the blogging community. Caring for parents is a time-consuming job, but one that is ever so rewarding because it is God ordained. And for my husband and myself, we only wish we could have done more. You will remain in my prayers, as will your mother. May God richly bless you as you step out in obedience to Him. xo

Dear Debbie,I am sad to read your post but understand it completely. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers and most definitely keep in touch by email. We are all fortunate to have met you in blogland and I hope we will see you here again when the time is right. Sending hugs and love to you my friend, Linda

Well I'm a bit "behind" with blogging and just now realized that you won't be posting on your wonderful blog anymore. I will truly miss all your inspirational posts. I still have the wonderful mug you sent me in the Mug Exchange and think of you every time I see it. Thank goodness we have e-mail and can stay in touch. You need to do what you feel is right for you and your family. You will be missed here in the blogging world though.

I mourn the fact that this lovely blog is closing but I certainly do understand. You are in my thoughts, you and your dear and mother and sisters. You have been such a thoughtful friend to me over the years. I do have your email and would love to keep in touch. Blessings to you, Deb as life continues and as you hold Gpd's hand during it all.

Oh, Debbie, you will be much missed! I will keep your blog on my feed reader, and if you ever have opportunity or desire to post again, please do! You may find, after a while, or if life changes yet again, that blogging is something you can do again. We love you and know you are doing all you must do for your family! May God bless and hold you in his hand.

I saw your blog on Legacy of Home blog roll and when I came here I see the sweetest face I've seen in a long time... : )

I can relate, and your writing here struck heartstrings in me. I just lost my dad, very unusual heartbreaking circumstances. I know how true it is...How life changes, things change and oh it can break our hearts at time I truly understand. Thank God for quiet times with our Father.

I'm sorry you are leaving but maybe one day you will be back when you are ready and have time.

Be blessed, be at Peace, God be with you! I will remember you in prayer.

Debbie, it has been such a pleasure getting acquainted with you and Stephanie on your blogs. Knowing what you're going through, I was so happy this morning to see that you had paid me a visit at Delightful Repast. I think life has gotten more complicated for people in all age groups now, and that makes everything harder. We must constantly adjust our to-do lists. I hope you are taking as good care of yourself as you always do of others. Hugs, Jean

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Hi, I'm Debbie! My heart is blessed to have you here!

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And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. -Colossians 3:15-17

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The credit for my blog design goes to my daughter, Stephanie, who blogs over at The Enchanting Rose. Click on her picture to visit her lovely place.